City education guide
Tulsa OK
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Discover Tulsa OK
Tulsa – A hidden gem in the heart of Oklahoma, where rich history, modern charm, and Southern hospitality meet. Known for its art deco architecture, thriving music scene, and deep oil industry roots, Tulsa offers a mix of small-town ease and big-city energy. Whether you're strolling through the historic districts, catching live jazz downtown, or exploring the banks of the Arkansas River, Tulsa invites you to enjoy both culture and comfort all in one place.
- Population: ~410,000
- Weather: Four distinct seasons; hot summers (70-95°F), chilly winters (30-50°F), and mild springs and falls.
- Places To Visit: Gathering Place park, Philbrook Museum of Art, Tulsa Zoo, Blue Dome District, Woody Guthrie Center.
- Top Activities: Exploring Route 66 landmarks, attending a concert at Cain’s Ballroom, kayaking on the Arkansas River, biking the River Parks trails, shopping at Utica Square.
- Famous Food: Chicken-fried steak, barbecue from Burn Co., onion burgers, Coney Island-style hot dogs, and homemade pies at local diners.
Fun facts
Tulsa, Oklahoma is a city with rich history, vibrant arts, and unexpected surprises. Known for its unique blend of Southern hospitality and cosmopolitan charm, Tulsa is full of fun facts that show what makes it special:
- Oil Capital of the World – In the early 1900s, Tulsa was once considered the “Oil Capital of the World” due to its booming petroleum industry.
- Home of Route 66 – Tulsa is one of the key cities on the historic Route 66, and it has some of the best-preserved roadside attractions along the route.
- The Center of the Universe – Tulsa has a mysterious spot downtown called the "Center of the Universe", where your voice echoes back louder than you said it—but only to you!
- Greenwood Legacy – Tulsa’s Greenwood District was known as "Black Wall Street" during the early 20th century, once one of the most prosperous Black communities in the U.S.
- Art Deco Wonderland – The city has one of the largest collections of Art Deco architecture in the nation, especially in its downtown area.
- Homegrown Music – Tulsa helped shape the "Tulsa Sound"—a musical style rooted in blues, rock, and country. Stars like Leon Russell and JJ Cale called it home.
- A City with Parks – Tulsa boasts over 135 parks, including the world-class Gathering Place, a 66-acre riverfront park ranked among the best in the U.S.
- World’s Largest Praying Hands – The 60-foot bronze praying hands statue at Oral Roberts University is the largest of its kind in the world.
- Philbrook Museum of Art – This world-class museum was once the mansion of oil tycoon Waite Phillips and now houses global and Native American art.
- Tulsa Time – The classic song “Tulsa Time” made famous by Don Williams and Eric Clapton, was written right in Tulsa and helped put the city’s name in music history.
Jobs and careers
Tulsa, OK is a growing city with a strong presence in aerospace, energy, healthcare, and manufacturing industries. Its central location and lower cost of living make it an attractive place for both businesses and workers. Below are five of the most in-demand jobs in Tulsa today.
Top 5 Jobs in Tulsa, OK
| Job Title | Average Salary | Industry |
|---|---|---|
| Healthcare Administrator | ~$86,000 | Healthcare |
| Welder | ~$48,000 | Manufacturing |
| Aerospace Engineer | ~$90,000 | Aerospace |
| Accountant | ~$66,000 | Finance |
| Civil Engineer | ~$78,000 | Infrastructure |
High schools
Tulsa, OK offers a mix of exceptional public and private high schools that help students succeed academically and socially. These schools prepare teens for college, careers, and leadership roles in their communities.
Top Public High Schools In Tulsa
- Booker T. Washington High School – Known for its strong academics, advanced placement classes, and International Baccalaureate program.
- Jenks High School – Offers college-level courses and a wide range of extracurricular activities. It consistently ranks among Oklahoma's best.
- Union High School – Recognized for its excellent sports programs and strong academic focus, especially in STEM and the arts.
- Bixby High School – Offers a solid college-prep curriculum with standout programs in athletics and fine arts.
- Owasso High School – Provides students with a wide range of courses, including AP and dual-credit options, with a focus on preparing for higher education.
Top Private High Schools In Tulsa
- Holland Hall – A top-rated college preparatory school that emphasizes academics, arts, and character development from grades Pre-K through 12.
- Cascia Hall Preparatory School – A Catholic, college-prep school known for its challenging courses and strong student support.
- Bishop Kelley High School – Offers a strong religious and academic foundation, with AP and honors courses in core subjects.
- Mingos Baptist Academy – A smaller, private Christian school with a focus on faith-based education and student maturity.
- – Provides both academic and spiritual education, emphasizing college readiness and leadership.
Colleges and universities
Tulsa is home to several reputable colleges and universities, offering strong academic programs, research opportunities, and professional development in fields like engineering, healthcare, business, and the arts.
Top Public Colleges & Universities in Tulsa
The University of Tulsa (Public-Private Partnership) – Although often considered a private university, TU maintains strong public ties and partnerships. It is a highly respected research institution known for its programs in engineering, law, energy, and cybersecurity.
– The largest two-year college in the state, TCC offers comprehensive associate degree and certificate programs with strong transfer pathways to four-year universities.
Oklahoma State University-Tulsa (OSU-Tulsa) – This branch campus of Oklahoma State University provides upper-division and graduate programs, especially strong in business, engineering, and education.
Rogers State University (Tulsa Campus) – A regional university offering bachelor's and associate degrees in various fields like nursing, business, and liberal arts with flexible scheduling options for working adults.
Northeastern State University – Broken Arrow Campus – Located just outside Tulsa, this campus offers a variety of undergraduate and graduate degree programs, especially focused on education, science, and business.
Top Private Colleges & Universities in Tulsa
Oral Roberts University (ORU) – A nationally recognized Christian liberal arts university, ORU offers strong programs in business, ministry, health sciences, and media with a global perspective.
Spartan College of Aeronautics and Technology – A private technical college specializing in aviation and aerospace training, Spartan prepares students for careers in aircraft maintenance, avionics, and aviation technology.
Victory College – A small, faith-based institution focused on ministry and leadership training, offering associate and bachelor’s degrees in theology and Christian studies.
American Institute of Medical Technology (AIMT) – A career-focused private school offering specialized healthcare training, particularly in imaging and diagnostics, such as ultrasound and MRI technology.
Clary Sage College – A leading cosmetology and design school in Tulsa, offering hands-on training in beauty, fashion, and interior design with industry-aligned certifications.
Sports teams
Tulsa, Oklahoma may not have major league sports teams like some larger cities, but it boasts a vibrant scene of professional and semi-professional teams that keep local fans cheering. The city's sports culture is strong, with teams competing in basketball, baseball, soccer, and hockey leagues across the nation.
🏀 Basketball – Tulsa 66ers (NBA G League, Former)
- Tulsa 66ers – The 66ers were the official NBA G League affiliate of the Oklahoma City Thunder from 2005 to 2014. They played a key role in developing future NBA talent and helped bring high-level basketball to Tulsa. Although no longer active, the team left a strong legacy in the city.
⚾ Baseball – Tulsa Drillers (Double-A Central, Minor League Baseball - affiliated with LA Dodgers)
- Tulsa Drillers – Founded in 1977, the Drillers are the Double-A affiliate of the Los Angeles Dodgers. They play at ONEOK Field, located in the scenic Tulsa Arts District. The team has helped develop many MLB All-Stars and continues to be a beloved sporting attraction in the city.
⚽ Soccer – Tulsa Roughnecks FC / FC Tulsa (USL Championship)
- FC Tulsa – Formerly known as Tulsa Roughnecks FC, the team rebranded in 2019 and now plays in the USL Championship, the second tier of U.S. professional soccer. They provide exciting matches at ONEOK Field, building a passionate fanbase and growing soccer culture in Oklahoma.
🏒 Hockey – Tulsa Oilers (ECHL)
- Tulsa Oilers – Competing in the ECHL, the Tulsa Oilers are one of the oldest professional hockey teams in the United States. Founded in 1928 and with a rich history of rivalries and championships, the team plays at the BOK Center and brings fast-paced, family-friendly action to Tulsa fans.
Even without top-tier NFL or NBA teams, Tulsa has built a community of loyal sports fans by supporting local teams. These professional clubs offer fun, affordable entertainment and a chance to experience the thrill of the game right in the heart of Oklahoma.
Places for students
Tulsa, Oklahoma, is a vibrant city with a surprising range of activities and spots that are perfect for students looking to unwind and have a good time. Whether you're into arts, outdoor activities, or local eats, Tulsa offers something for everyone.
Gathering Place – A massive, award-winning park that has quickly become a favorite for locals and visitors alike. With stunning landscapes, interactive fountains, sports courts, and trails, it's the perfect place to chill, play, or study in nature.
Cherry Street – This hip area in Tulsa is filled with cafes, boutiques, and restaurants. It's known for its fun, dynamic vibe, perfect for a weekend hangout or a late-night coffee run.
Utica Square – A charming outdoor shopping center offering a mix of high-end shops, eateries, and cozy places to sit and relax. It's ideal for those who love to shop and dine in style.
River Parks – Stretching alongside the Arkansas River, this series of parks offers trails, picnic areas, and great views. It's a wonderful spot for biking, jogging, or simply enjoying a lazy afternoon by the river.
The Center of the Universe – A quirky Tulsa landmark with an intriguing acoustic anomaly. Visit this spot to test the echo magic and enjoy some laughs with friends.
Blue Dome District – Known for its vibrant nightlife and local dining options, the Blue Dome District is a hub for social activities. Whether you're into live music, dance clubs, or just grabbing a drink with friends, this district has it all.
Philbrook Museum of Art – An art lover's haven with beautiful galleries and lush gardens. This museum is a peaceful place to walk, reflect, and enjoy art and nature simultaneously.
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